Get some fresh air. It seems simple enough but many people rarely get a chance to do so. When you're indoors, it's uncommon to be exposed to the natural light of the sun. Subsequently, your body produces melatonin, a sleep hormone that makes you feel sleepy. Exposing yourself to natural sunlight helps stop the production of melatonin so that drowsiness goes away naturally.
So get outdoors and breathe in some fresh air. If you can't leave your desk, open the windows and let in as much natural light as possible. Too much fluorescent lighting can tire your eyes and interfere with brain activity, which leads to fatigue.
5. Stimulate the Mind
Find something to laugh about or something else that is interesting, fun, or otherwise enjoyable to think about. It's easy to get tired when you're doing something monotonous, so break up the monotony! While you should still try to be productive, studies have shown that a one to two minute break every thirty minutes can increase productivity.
6. Play Music
Play music you enjoy. The right type of music can be a very useful tool in helping you stay alert and refreshed. Unless you are accustomed to sleeping with loud noises, the music should keep you awake. Find songs that you are familiar with to tap out the beat or sing along with to help stimulate the mind.
Of course, there is a risk with any of these tips that the distraction can be too seductive and lure you away from work when you push your body beyond its natural rhythms. It's important to find a balance. After all, the goal that these tips are trying to accomplish is to increase your productivity. Try out these 6 tips to see which ones work best for you.
